Pair of altar cruets 1784 - 1785

This pair of silver altar cruets, created by French silversmith Jean-Ange Loque in 1784-1785, exemplifies the elegant Neoclassical style popular in the late 18th century. The cruets, now at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, are finely crafted with intricate floral and geometric designs, demonstrating the precision and skill of the artist. Their simple yet refined forms highlight the beauty of the metal and contribute to their functional purpose in religious ceremonies. The cruets are a testament to the enduring influence of Neoclassical aesthetics on silverwork during this period.